The Prenter Report #3

Australia’s selectors have turned the clock back in naming the team for the Centenary Test against New Zealand to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday, 9 May.

It’s as though they wanted to remind the game’s multitude of modern day fans of how the game was once played.

Granite tough forwards, not one who will take a backwards step, spiced with a backline boasting an abundance of skills.

And, without hesitation, I predict this will be the same lot that represent Australia in the World Cup later this year.

Barring injury, that is. Injury could come into play judging by the composition of the Australian pack. Here is a pack that will take no prisoners but may be left nursing more than a few bruises.

The Australian backline for the Centenary Test has 40 points written all over it. Each member is a try merchant.

I predict wingers Greg Inglis and Israel Folau will get more try scoring opportunities at the SCG than they have enjoyed in a lifetime.

This backline is gilt-edged. Nine carat. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant.

The forwards are mean.

They will trash their opposition as long as they remember their role. No use any of them loitering three out from the ruck. If they play it tight and robust, they will set a platform for an avalanche of tries.

I am sure skipper Cameron Smith will pave the way by hitting the middle with gusto.

The reserve bench is also laden with power and skill. Webb and Mason-ouch! And Gidley and Tupou-another harvest of tries.

There is always controversy once an Australian side is named.

This side is an exception. No club politics. No coach’s pets. A team picked on form and a team that could send shock waves through the Kiwis.

If ever a black and white jumper was to inspire the Kiwis, now is the time.

The Australian team is: Billy Slater; Greg Inglis, Mark Gasnier, Justin Hodges, Israel Folau; Darren Lockyer ©, Jonathon Thurston; Greg Bird, Paul Gallen, Ryan Hofffman, Petero Civoniceva, Cameron Smith, Brent Kite. Interchange: Carl Webb, Willie Mason, Anthony Tupou, Kurt Gidley.

By Geoff Prenter